Indiana Antique Vehicle Registration Guide for Classic Cars

Indiana antique vehicle registration for cars 25 years and older lets you get specialty plates and lower fees for your classic ride. The state’s rule is simple: if your car is at least 25 years old, it qualifies as an antique, but you’ll still need to follow the right steps to register it properly.

As of 2026, the process involves proving your vehicle’s age, securing the right paperwork, and submitting it to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles. The good news is that antique vehicles often skip emissions testing, but there are a few key details to get right.

Some counties require a VIN inspection.

Does Your Car Qualify as an Antique in Indiana?

Your car must be 25 years or older to qualify. The cutoff is based on the model year, not the manufacture date. For example, a 1999 model qualifies in 2024, but a 2000 model does not.

Modified vehicles may not qualify if the changes alter the original design significantly. The Indiana BMV has the final say, so confirm with your local branch if you’re unsure.

Indiana’s Antique Vehicle Registration vs. Standard Registration

Antique registration is cheaper and often comes with perks like specialty plates. Standard registration applies to newer vehicles and requires emissions testing in some counties.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Antique registration is ideal for collectors who don’t use their vehicle as a daily driver.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

You’ll need a few key documents to register your antique vehicle in Indiana:

• Vehicle title (in your name)
• Proof of insurance (minimum $25k/$50k/$25k liability)
• Completed Form 205 (Application for Certificate of Title)
• Form 37530 (Affidavit of Ownership, if no title exists)
• VIN verification (for out-of-state vehicles or missing titles)

For official forms and guidelines, refer to the Indiana BMV website.

Step-by-Step: How to Register an Antique Car in Indiana

If You Have the Title

If You Don’t Have the Title

If Your Car Is Modified or Custom

Modified vehicles may not qualify for antique registration. The BMV reviews each case individually. If your car is heavily modified, you might need a custom vehicle registration instead.

Fees, Timelines, and What to Expect

Antique registration typically costs $20, $30. Title fees add another $15 if you need a new one issued.

Processing takes 1, 2 weeks for mail-in applications. In-person submissions often get same-day service. Some counties may add a small service fee.

Where and How to Submit Your Application

You can submit your application in person at any Indiana BMV branch. Mail-in options are available, but in-person visits are faster.

Check your local branch hours before visiting. Some locations require appointments for title services.

Can You Drive Your Antique Car Daily in Indiana?

Yes, you can drive an antique car daily in Indiana. The state does not impose usage limits on antique plates.

However, insurance companies often have their own restrictions. Many antique policies limit mileage or require garage storage. Always check with your provider.

Common Mistakes That Get Applications Rejected

Missing or incorrect paperwork is the top reason for rejection. Double-check that your title is in your name and matches the VIN.

Another common issue is failing to provide proof of insurance. Indiana requires minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.

Modified vehicles without proper documentation also face rejection. Include photos and a detailed description if your car has significant changes.

Insurance Requirements for Antique Vehicles

Indiana requires the same minimum liability insurance for antique vehicles as standard cars. However, many owners opt for specialty antique insurance.

These policies often include agreed-value coverage. They may also offer lower premiums since antique cars are typically driven less.

Check with providers like Hagerty or Grundy for quotes. Standard insurers may not offer the same level of protection for classic vehicles.

Specialty Plates: Year of Manufacture vs. Standard Antique

Year of Manufacture plates match your car’s original model year. These are popular with collectors who want an authentic look.

Standard antique plates simply say "Antique Auto" without a year. Year of Manufacture plates require additional documentation to prove the vehicle’s age and plate authenticity.

Out-of-State Vehicles: Extra Steps You Can’t Skip

Out-of-state vehicles need a VIN inspection before registration. This verifies the vehicle’s identity and ensures it’s not stolen.

You’ll also need to provide a title from your previous state. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to apply for a bonded title or provide an affidavit of ownership.

FAQs About Indiana Antique Vehicle Registration